The new regulation was formulated in mid March, but due to technical glitches it was not effective. However, from October 1, officials will begin to strictly enforce the rules.
Although the new rules cover Europeans, US citizens are still exempted from it.
Other foreign nationals, including those who pass through the country on a stopover, has to fill out am online eTA, prior to their trip, and also pay an administrative fee of $7 Canadian dollars.
Once an online form is filled in with the payment of fees, an email will be sent granting permission to travel to Canada which will be in effect for the next five years.
"Most applicants get approved within minutes," the ministry said on its website. "However, some applications can take several days to process so don't wait until the last minute."
The measure is similar to one set up by the United States in 2008, and will affect more than three million travellers per year from more than 50 countries.
(Reporting by Debarati Mukherjee)
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